Summary

East West Bank, a leading financial institution, sought a premium packaging solution to honor their associates’ achievements with gifts. The bank required a sophisticated magnetic rigid box featuring pearlescent paper, black foil with registered embossing for the logo, and a custom EVA foam insert with a thumb notch for practicality.

PakFactory collaborated closely with East West Bank to deliver a fully customized design. By leveraging advanced materials, precision engineering, and innovative techniques, the final packaging reflected the bank’s brand excellence, ensuring both functionality and elegance.

About East West Bank

East West Bank is a leading full-service commercial bank with a legacy of connecting customers and businesses between the East and the West. Headquartered in Pasadena, California, the bank manages over $70 billion in assets and is recognized for its expertise in cross-border banking, offering innovative solutions for individuals, businesses, and institutions. As a community bank, East West Bank supports underserved populations, particularly immigrants, by providing essential banking services.

The bank’s services span a wide range of financial products, including personal banking, commercial loans, trade finance, and wealth management. With a strategic focus on bridging international markets, East West Bank has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of global commerce. The East West Bank Foundation plays a crucial role in community support initiatives, including disaster recovery efforts and promoting financial literacy.

East West Bank’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its financial services to the recognition and celebration of its associates. The bank prioritizes honoring its employees with meaningful rewards that reflect its brand values of quality, innovation, and sophistication.

For their latest initiative, East West Bank sought premium packaging for plaques recognizing their associates’ achievements. The packaging needed to embody the bank’s high standards and attention to detail, reinforcing its brand as a leader in both the financial and professional recognition spaces. To achieve this, they partnered with PakFactory to create a custom packaging solution that aligned perfectly with their goals. East West Bank remains dedicated to supporting the community through various programs and initiatives.

The Challenge: Presentation Boxes

East West Bank required a packaging solution that not only protected and presented their plaques elegantly but also reflected the premium nature of their brand. The project posed several technical and creative challenges that required a combination of material expertise, advanced design techniques, and precise engineering to meet their needs:

Custom Design

The packaging needed to feature a magnetic rigid box structure that exuded elegance while meeting strict dimensional requirements of 7″ x 5″ x 1″. The exterior had to incorporate pearlescent paper, chosen for its luminous and upscale finish, and full CMYK printing on the interior and exterior to maintain visual consistency. A matte coating was necessary to provide a polished, modern aesthetic that complemented the plaques.

Logo Precision

A key branding element was the East West Bank logo, which required a combination of black foiling and registered embossing. This complex process demanded exact alignment between the foil application and embossing to achieve a sharp, tactile effect that would elevate the visual and tactile experience of the packaging. The challenge was ensuring precision throughout production to maintain flawless results across all units.

Functional Customization

The plaques needed to fit securely within the packaging without risk of damage during transport or handling. This required the engineering of a custom EVA foam insert with precise cutouts tailored to the plaques’ dimensions. Furthermore, the insert needed to feature a thumb notch to allow recipients to easily remove the plaques while maintaining the box’s aesthetic integrity.

Material Matching

East West Bank had previously used gunmetal-colored pearlescent paper in their packaging and sought a solution that would replicate or enhance this material. PakFactory was tasked with sourcing comparable options while proposing modern alternatives that could align with the bank’s brand identity. Any material changes had to seamlessly integrate with the other design elements, such as foiling, embossing, and printing.

Seamless Integration

The packaging needed to balance form and function, ensuring the final product was both visually striking and practical. This required precise prototyping and rigorous quality control to ensure all components—from the box structure to the foam insert—were flawlessly executed.

PakFactory had to navigate these challenges while ensuring the project stayed true to East West Bank’s vision of delivering a premium, cohesive, and practical packaging solution.

The Process & Solution

PakFactory approached East West Bank’s packaging project with a structured and collaborative process to ensure every detail met their exact specifications while introducing modern enhancements. The process combined meticulous material sourcing, advanced design techniques, and precise engineering, resulting in a premium solution.

1. Material Sourcing and Matching

East West Bank’s previous packaging utilized gunmetal-colored pearlescent paper, a distinctive material chosen for its elegant sheen. PakFactory began by sourcing multiple samples of pearlescent paper to replicate the original finish. Alongside this, alternative options were explored to align with the bank’s modern branding needs.

Custom presentation boxes significantly enhance the marketing effectiveness and aesthetics of the packaging, making them a key tool in distinguishing brands and leaving a lasting impression on customers.

After careful evaluation, PakFactory proposed a lighter blue-grey pearlescent paper as a sophisticated alternative for better contrast for the logo. This option offered a contemporary twist while retaining the upscale and luminous qualities associated with pearlescent finishes. East West Bank ultimately selected this option, appreciating its alignment with their evolving brand identity.

2. Logo Design Execution

The East West Bank logo was a critical component of the design, requiring a precise combination of black foiling and registered embossing. The process involved:

• Foil Application: Black foil was applied with pinpoint accuracy to create a bold and luxurious finish.
• Registered Embossing: The embossed elements were precisely aligned with the foil, adding depth and a tactile effect. This required close coordination between the foiling and embossing stages to ensure the alignment and finish were flawless.

The result was a striking logo that elevated the overall packaging, enhancing both visual and tactile engagement.

3. Engineering the Foam Insert

To ensure the plaques were both secure and easily accessible, PakFactory designed a custom EVA foam insert to account for the plaques’ dimensions. Using precision cutting technology, the foam was tailored to match the plaques’ dimensions exactly. A thumb notch was incorporated into the design, providing an ergonomic solution that allowed recipients to easily remove the plaques without compromising the aesthetic integrity of the packaging.

This combination of protection and practicality was critical to maintaining the overall functionality of the packaging.

4. Prototpying and Refinement

PakFactory developed prototypes of the magnetic rigid box to validate the material finishes, structural integrity, and logo effects. During this stage:

• Pearlescent Paper: Samples were tested for durability and compatibility with CMYK printing and matte coating.
• Foiling and Embossing: The alignment of the black foil and registered embossing was refined to ensure consistency across all units.
• Insert Fit: The EVA foam insert was adjusted to guarantee a snug fit for the plaques while ensuring the thumb notch was appropriately positioned.

Feedback from East West Bank was incorporated at every stage to ensure the final product aligned perfectly with their expectations.

5. Production and Quality Control

With the design and materials finalized, PakFactory moved to production. Each step of the manufacturing process was carefully monitored:

• Box Construction: Magnetic closures were integrated into the rigid box structure, ensuring durability and ease of use.
• Printing and Coating: High-quality CMYK printing was applied both inside and outside the box, followed by a matte coating to enhance the finish.
• Assembly: The pearlescent paper, foam insert, and logo design were assembled with precision to create a cohesive and polished final product.

Quality control checks were conducted at every stage to ensure all units met PakFactory’s high standards and East West Bank’s specifications.

6. Delivery and Post-Production Support

PakFactory coordinated the logistics to deliver the completed packaging to East West Bank efficiently and securely. Ongoing support was provided to address any future needs, ensuring the bank could seamlessly reorder or adapt the design for future recognition programs.

The Results

PakFactory’s tailored packaging solution for East West Bank delivered measurable results, aligning with the bank’s high standards for quality, branding, and functionality. The success of the project was evident in several key outcomes:

Elevated Brand Perception

The premium magnetic rigid boxes reflected East West Bank’s reputation for excellence and attention to detail. The pearlescent paper’s luminous finish and the striking combination of black foil and registered embossing for the logo reinforced the bank’s commitment to sophistication and innovation. East West Bank invested significant money in creating high-quality packaging to ensure it met their high standards. Recipients of the plaques associated the elegant packaging with the bank’s high-value brand, enhancing its image internally and externally.

Enhanced Employee Recognition Experience

The custom packaging significantly enhanced the overall presentation of the plaques. The thoughtfully designed EVA foam insert, with its precision-fit cutouts and thumb notch, provided a seamless unboxing experience, ensuring recipients could access their awards effortlessly. Associates praised the quality and design, adding a sense of prestige to the recognition program and fostering greater employee engagement.

Functional and Durable Design

The robust construction of the 2.5mm-thick greyboard, combined with the secure magnetic closure, ensured the plaques remained protected during transport and handling. This durability minimized any potential damage, reflecting the bank’s focus on reliability and professionalism.

Seamless Integration with Branding Standards

By replicating and modernizing the look of the bank’s previous packaging, PakFactory ensured brand consistency while introducing enhancements. The transition from gunmetal to blue-grey pearlescent paper provided a contemporary update that maintained alignment with the bank’s visual identity. The precise black foil and registered embossing logo application added an elevated tactile and visual element, solidifying the packaging as a branded asset.

Practicality Without Compromise on Elegance

PakFactory successfully balanced aesthetic appeal with functionality. The thumb notch in the EVA foam insert demonstrated attention to detail and practicality while maintaining the overall elegance of the design. This user-centric feature added value without detracting from the visual sophistication of the packaging.

Positive Feedback and Long-Term Impact

The project received overwhelmingly positive feedback from East West Bank’s leadership and associates. The thoughtful design and flawless execution left a lasting impression on recipients, setting a benchmark for future recognition programs. The scalable design also provided flexibility for future reorders or adaptations, ensuring long-term value.

Why Choose PakFactory

East West Bank chose PakFactory as their trusted partner for this project due to our unmatched ability to deliver premium, fully customized packaging solutions. Our expertise and dedication to quality ensured that every detail aligned perfectly with the bank’s vision, branding, and functionality requirements. Here’s why PakFactory stood out:

Tailored Custom Solutions

PakFactory excels in creating packaging tailored to unique client needs. For East West Bank, we:

• Replicated and Enhanced Existing Designs: Matched their previous gunmetal pearlescent paper while offering an upgraded blue-grey alternative that aligned with modern branding trends.
• Combined Aesthetic and Practical Elements: Designed a magnetic rigid box that married sophisticated materials with functional features, such as the custom EVA foam insert with a thumb notch for practicality.

Expertise in Premium Materials and Finishes

Our experience in sourcing and working with high-quality materials ensured a seamless integration of elements:

• Pearlescent Paper Expertise: PakFactory sourced and tested pearlescent paper to ensure it delivered the desired luminous finish and durability.
• Advanced Logo Techniques: The precise application of black foil and registered embossing showcased our ability to execute complex branding treatments flawlessly.

Advanced Manufacturing and Quality Assurance

PakFactory’s state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities ensured that every unit met stringent quality standards:

• Structural Durability: Constructed with 2.5mm greyboard for long-lasting strength and reliability.
• Perfect Alignment: Achieved precision in the alignment of embossed and foiled logos, ensuring a polished and professional finish.
• Flawless Execution: Rigorous quality control processes guaranteed consistency and perfection across all packaging units.

End-to-End Service

PakFactory provided a seamless experience from concept to delivery, handling every detail of the project:

• Comprehensive Consultations: Our team collaborated closely with East West Bank to ensure their goals and expectations were fully understood and met.
• Transparent Communication: Throughout the process, we kept the bank informed of progress, material options, and production updates, fostering confidence and trust.
• Reliable Delivery: We ensured the final packaging was delivered on time and in pristine condition, ready for their recognition event.

Commitment to Innovation and Detail

PakFactory’s ability to blend innovation with precision resulted in packaging that stood out in both form and function:

• Modern Updates: The transition to blue-grey pearlescent paper provided a fresh yet cohesive update to their brand identity.
• User-Centric Design: The addition of a thumb notch in the EVA foam insert demonstrated attention to practical usability without compromising on elegance.

Industry-Leading Expertise Across Diverse Sectors

With years of experience serving clients in multiple industries, PakFactory understands the unique challenges and requirements of custom packaging. This versatility allowed us to bring fresh perspectives and proven techniques to the project, ensuring a superior outcome for East West Bank.

PakFactory’s expertise extends to sectors such as private equity, where we support businesses in raising capital and expanding through investments in diverse industries.

Partner with PakFactory for Premium Packaging

Inspired by our work with East West Bank? Let us help you create bespoke packaging that reflects your brand’s sophistication and attention to detail. Contact PakFactory today to collaborate with our specialists and craft packaging solutions that elevate your recognition programs and leave a lasting impression.